Your spinal column runs from top to bottom. When your posture is best, the bones align along the vertical axis, it is axial extension. This is a never ending challenge, trying to eliminate our spinal curvature exaggerations. I correct a client, they fix it, but without consistent reminder cues, many would not maintain it throughout the session.
However, axial extension is worth gaining awareness and control of because the spinal discs need to absorb shock. We don’t want the spinal nerves to be in a state of compression..
Back pain can diminish the quality your life. Picture a person who has a thoracic (mid-back) kyphosis (hunched forward). In this posture, the ability of extra and intra cellular water to enter the discs so that the spine can properly absorb shock is compromised.
How do we achieve axial extension? Endurance & awareness of our core musculature, and how they effect your spinal column. Being able to angle your spinal bones in the longest position possible for the posture you are in. Once you learn it, you will start to lay the foundation for a healthier mind and body.
I credit my ELDOA training from Guy VOYER DO & Ilaria Cavagna for driving this point home for me 5 years ago.
Obviously this is highly unique to the individual, but here are some helpful ideas.
Imagine your head as a helium balloon. The balloon’s string as your spine. The head (balloon) reaches up to the universe from the crown (top) and base (bottom) of skull, with the head level and eyes focused straight ahead. You want to reach your crown up so high that it makes your entire spine longer. No lateral deviation or rotation.
Think of your heart area as open & uncrowded. The chest is lifted. Eliminate lateral deviation.
Feel your lower back elongate - feel it get a little straighter - to achieve this, reach your sit bones directly down to the ground, and grow your spinal column away from it. Your pelvis must be level.
Depending on your posture, you may need to curl your tail bone forward or backward to achieve a straighter and less exaggerated lumbar curve.
Think of reaching your sit bones down as your spine stands completely erect, reaching away from gravity.
Gravity line:
Knees are unlocked, and angled directly over the center of each foot.
Feet are awake, from the mound of the big toe, mound of pinkie toe, and center heels. The intrinsic development of the core of your foot is actually crucial (this is a topic for another day).
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